can you get disability benefits for osteoarthritis

by Hazel Kuphal Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and it has impacted your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Osteoarthritis results in the gradual loss of cartilage from your joints. A tough tissue that provides the cushioning between the bones that form the joints, it is needed.

When does osteoarthritis qualify for disability benefits?

Social Security sometimes grants disability benefits when the pain and stiffness of arthritis severely limits an individual's mobility or use of the hands. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down. This can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, swelling, muscle weakness, and a reduced range of motion in the affected joints.

Can you get SSDI disability or SSI for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is considered a severe medical condition; therefore it should be listed on an application for SSD or SSI disability. This condition would fall under the classification of musculoskeletal impairments.

Can I still go to college if I have a disability?

Attending School and Disability Benefits. Attend college, if your disability allows it. For instance, if you are physically handicapped and can no longer work because of it, but you can get into and out of handicapped-accessible buses to and from school and access classrooms, your disability would allow you to attend school.

Can I volunteer if I get disability?

No problem. There are countless volunteer opportunities out there with workers needed in a variety of areas. Having a disability does not have to keep you from taking one (or many) of these opportunities. If you're passionate about sports, look into the Special Olympics. Volunteers are needed at every level.

Is osteoarthritis considered a disability?

Because of the severity of osteoarthritis the Social Security Administration (SSA) has determined that it is a disability, meaning you may be eligible to receive disability benefits.

What benefits can I claim if I have osteoarthritis?

If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and the pain and stiffness resulting from the disease make it impossible for you to work, you may be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. The gradual loss of cartilage from your joints causes osteoarthritis.

How hard is it to get disability for arthritis?

Your chances of getting disability with arthritis vary on different factors such as, the medical evidence you provide, prior denials, not working with a doctor and the claimant's ability to continue working. Generally, around 63% of disability applications for SSDI are denied on the initial application.

What type of arthritis qualifies for disability?

SSA recognizes inflammatory arthritis could qualify as a disabling disease if it is accompanied by the following findings. Deformity or swelling of an ankle, knee, or hip joint with: At least two of the following symptoms: fever, loss of weight, fatigue, or a general feeling of discomfort.

How much does disability pay for osteoarthritis?

You Could Be Entitled to $3,345 Per Month! Get a Free Disability Evaluation.

Is osteoarthritis painful all the time?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that worsens over time, often resulting in chronic pain. Joint pain and stiffness can become severe enough to make daily tasks difficult. Depression and sleep disturbances can result from the pain and disability of osteoarthritis.

Will osteoarthritis cripple me?

Osteoarthritis (OA) can be crippling if untreated as it disintegrates the cartilage that supports the joints of the spine, knees, hands, and spine. This causes debilitating pain because the bones start rubbing against one another.

What is the most painful type of arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can be one of the most painful types of arthritis; it affects joints as well as other surrounding tissues, including organs. This inflammatory, autoimmune disease attacks healthy cells by mistake, causing painful swelling in the joints, like hands, wrists and knees.

Can you end up in a wheelchair with osteoarthritis?

Sadly for some Osteoarthritis can lead to need to using a wheelchair. The pain while often manageable with drugs can combine with joint stiffness and loss of dexterity to require the use of a wheelchair to help alleviate the conditions.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and arthritis?

The main difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is the cause behind the joint symptoms. Osteoarthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's own immune system attacks the body's joints. It may begin any time in life.

Can I retire early with osteoarthritis?

In many cases there was a mild negative effect of OA on work participation; however, only a small proportion of workers required early retirement. To summarise, OA of the hip or knee could not be proven to be a strong reason for leaving the work force through sick leave or early retirement.”

What happens if I can't work because of arthritis?

If you have to stop work or work part time because of your arthritis, you may find it hard to cope financially. You may be entitled to 1 or more of the following types of financial support: if you have a job but cannot work because of your illness, you're entitled to Statutory Sick Pay from your employer.

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What is the most common type of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down. This can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, swelling, muscle weakness, and a reduced range of motion in the affected joints. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, but is most often found in the hands, hips, knees, or spine.

What does the SSA look for in overweight people?

If you are overweight, i n determining your physical limitations, the SSA must look at how the combined effect of your extra weight and arthritis limit your functioning. For example, if you are obese and also have arthritis in both knees, you might have more pain and be limited more than someone with arthritis alone.

Can arthritis in the neck make it impossible to work?

Arthritis in the neck can hinder the ability to work at a computer, and arthritis in the lumbar spine can make it impossible to work at a job that requires lifting, carrying, crouching, bending, or stooping. Since osteoarthritis can be found in different joints, causing different limitations, Social Security evaluates the various joint problems in ...

Can you get disability for back problems?

It is fairly common for osteoarthritis to occur in the vertebrae of the spine, but osteoarthritis in the spine qualifies for disability benefits only under certain conditions. To meet the requirements of the listing for spinal disorders, you must have a diagnosis ...

Can you walk on uneven surfaces with arthritis?

Lower extremity arthritis. If your arthritis affects your legs or your spine, you will probably be limited in walking on uneven surfaces, climbing, or squatting. In this case, your RFC assessment may limit you to no more than sedentary work.

Can you use one hand on a wheelchair?

you can't use one hand due to arthritis, and you need the other to operate a one-handed wheelchair, cane, crutch, or other device, OR. you can't use either arm or hand to begin, sustain, and finish work.

Can you be disabled with osteoarthritis?

This would make it difficult to do many jobs, even sedentary jobs. If you can't do even sedentary work, the SSA should find you disabled.

What is disability benefit?

Disability benefits provide monthly financial security to those who need help due to their disorders. While getting benefits for your disorder may seem daunting, below are the four best ways to give you the best chance at qualifying.

How many months of work do you have to have to be on disability?

Above all, you should know that to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have missed at least 12 consecutive months of work. The SSA will not even look at your application, if you can not meet this important guideline. If your severe osteoarthritis prevents you from working or performing normal daily tasks, ...

What is the most common form of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the world. While most people with the disorder experience mild to moderate symptoms, others with severe osteoarthritis can experience joint damage, fatigue, and crippling pain.

Can the SSA see if you have osteoarthritis?

However, by demonstrating your current and past medication lists, the SSA can more clearly see what options you have or haven’t tried . If it is shown that your osteoarthritis continues to persist despite previous treatment, you are more likely to receive benefits.

Is osteoarthritis a disability?

Osteoarthritis is a very common disorder, making it difficult for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to qualify applicants with this diagnosis. In order to be eligible, applicants must show that their symptoms are severe enough to hinder them on a daily basis. One of the best ways to do this is with hard evidence like up-to-date medical tests and scans.

Can you do overs on a disability application?

There are no do overs when it comes to submitting a Social Security disability application. Take your time filling out the form and make sure to triple check it for accuracy. One incorrect number in the Social Security number column can trigger an immediate denial by the SSA.

Can the SSA deny my claim?

With disorders like osteoarthritis, there are multiple treatment options available for people depending on the severity of their case. If the SSA believes that there are treatment options available to you that you haven’t explored, they are more likely to deny your claim. However, by demonstrating your current and past medication lists, the SSA can more clearly see what options you have or haven’t tried. If it is shown that your osteoarthritis continues to persist despite previous treatment, you are more likely to receive benefits.

How is osteoarthritis treated?

Osteoarthritis is treated by managing pain, improving joint function and maintaining body weight.

Why is disability important?

Disability benefits are an important source of income for those who are unable to work.

What is cartilage in joints?

Cartilage is a fibrous connective tissue that covers the ends of bones in normal joints reducing friction and allowing joints to move smoothly. Osteoarthritis most often occurs in weight bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, but may also affect fingers, toes, and the neck. Unlike other forms of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis ...

Why does cartilage wear away?

Osteoarthritis causes cartilage in a joint to lose elasticity and become stiff. The cartilage may wear away over time, decreasing its ability to cushion a joint and making it prone to damage. When cartilage breaks down, tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain and discomfort.

What is the phone number for osteoarthritis?

Call 512-454-4000 for experienced help today! Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis, also called OA, is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when cartilage breaks down in the joints and can affect any joint in the body.

What causes secondary osteoarthritis?

Secondary osteoarthritis is caused by another disease or condition such as obesity, surgery to the joint structures, congenital abnormalities (abnormal joints at birth), diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. More women than men develop OA. The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and swelling in affected joints usually ...

How do you know if you have osteoarthritis?

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and swelling in affected joints usually after repetitive use , but can also occur after long periods of inactivity; for example, sitting at a desk or in a theater. It may be difficult to walk, climb stairs and get in and out of chairs or bathtubs.

How to treat OA in hand?

Treatment for hand OA can include pain medication, wearing splints or braces during certain activities, physical therapy, and steroid injections. If individuals have extremely severe symptoms, they can have their bones fused together or have a joint replaced.

Why do my hands get OA?

OA is commonly known as degenerative arthritis because it causes a steady decline in the cartilage between the bones. Hands are one of the common areas in which people develop OA.

Can you work with hand OA without fine motor skills?

While those with hand OA don't usually suffer from impairments to their gross motor skills (meaning they have no difficulties with the use of their arms or legs), there are not a high number of jobs that can be performed without the use of fine motor skills.

Does Social Security consider your age?

However, Social Security does consider your age, education level, and work experience when determining if you should have to switch to a new type of job. The older you are, and the fewer job skills you have, the less likely it is that Social Security will expect you to learn a new job.

Can hand OA be limiting?

This can further limit the types of jobs they can do. While hand OA can be very limiting for some individuals, it is important to note that if accommodations can be made that lessen your symptoms to the point that you can complete tasks, you will not be determined to be impaired in that area.

How do I qualify for SSDI?

Generally, you may qualify for SSDI if osteoarthritis: 1 In a major joint in a lower extremity is causing severe pain and discomfort 2 Limits your daily activities, maintaining social functioning, or 3 Limits the completion of a task in a timely manner.

Is osteoarthritis a disability?

Osteoarthritis is listed on the Social Security Administration’s list of approved disabilities. Before we go into that though, we need to make sure we are talking about the same thing. Osteoarthritis is caused by injury, obesity or old age. You probably have an idea as to whether you would or would not qualify for Social Security Disability ...

Can you get SSDI if you have arthritis in your neck?

The same thing applies for arthritis in the neck, hands, elbows or basically any part of your body above the waist. If the arthritis is severe to the point that it limits your ability to work, then you may qualify for S SDI.

Can I get disability if I can't walk?

You probably have an idea as to whether you would or would not qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits based on your disability. If you are unable to walk or walk well, have pain and discomfort when walking, then holding down a job would be extremely difficult.

Can you get SSDI if you have osteoarthritis?

Generally, you may qualify for SSDI if osteoarthritis: In a major joint in a lower extremity is causing severe pain and discomfort. Limits your daily activities, maintaining social functioning, or. Limits the completion of a task in a timely manner.

Can I file for SSDI if I can't work?

If you’re unable to work for one year due to chronic pain, you should definitely apply for SSDI benefits. Having an experienced disability attorney file your claim doubles your odds of benefit approval right away.

Being Approved for Social Security Disability Benefits for Osteoarthritis

The majority of disability claims filed in Arkansas are denied. Many applications based on osteoarthritis do not escape this fate. However, there are multiple steps you could take to improve your chances of success. In addition to what is listed below, you should allow our experienced Arkansas disability lawyers to handle your claim.

Our Arkansas Social Security Disability Benefits Lawyers Provide Experienced Legal Help

Osteoarthritis could be debilitating. If your arthritis is severe enough to prevent you from working, you could qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits. However, the process is challenging and often frustrating.

How long does arthritis last on disability?

Additionally, the condition must be expected to last at least one year from the time of onset. Those with arthritis applying for disability benefits, will need to meet the Blue Book listing 14.09.

Why do people with osteoarthritis stop working?

People with osteoarthritis are often expected to stop working because their disease has become too debilitating and restricting.

Why is it important to include as much information as possible in a SSA decision?

It’s important to include as much information as possible so that the SSA can make their determination without having to request additional information. The more information you provide, the easier it is for them to make a decision.

What happens if you are not deemed medically qualified for Social Security Disability?

If a person is not deemed medically qualified for Social Security disability based on observable symptoms, the SSA will consider whether you can reasonably be expected to perform any type of work which you have done in the past.

Where is arthritis most common?

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, the tissue around the joints and surrounding tissues. Since there are joints all over the body, it’s possible to get arthritis in many locations even though it’s most common in the hands, knees and back.

How many years do I need to work to get disability?

These are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes. Typically, if you have worked five of the last ten years, you will have enough work credits. Depending on your age, there are a specific number of credits you must have to qualify ...

Can arthritis in hands cause a person to not work?

There are no ways to accommodate or work around the requirements of her job. As a result of her arthritis, she is unable to work.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

These include: 1. Joint Dysfunction. Arthritis can cause your joints to experience major dysfunction due to deformities such as misalignments, shortening of the joint or chronic pain and stiffness. If your condition has led to a dysfunction in any of your joints, you can automatically qualify for benefits.

What is the 4th condition that can automatically qualify you for benefits under the SSA?

The 4th arthritis condition that can automatically qualify you for benefits under the SSA listings is when arthritis causes inflammation or deformities in your knees, ankles, shoulders or elbows. When such deformities in the joints prevent you from working, you can meet the SSA listing for arthritis and receive benefits.

What Is Osteoarthritis?